The 4-tier developmental framework. Teach the child in front of you — not the one you wish was there.📄 ICC Athletic Development Plan (PDF)
Golf-specific vs. general athletic training by age. This is developmental science, not preference.
The youngest kids need movement literacy, balance, and coordination before golf-specific mechanics.
Pre-operational. Learn by doing, not listening.
3–5 minutes per activity
Imitation + play. They copy what they see.
Stickers, praise, novelty. Competition can demotivate.
Very short sentences. "Hold it like this." Physical demonstration > verbal.
5-6 activities, 5-8 minutes each. Keep moving.
Instruction Cues
Technical language, multiple instructions, extended listening time.
Concrete operational. Can follow sequences.
8–12 minutes per activity
Show + try + adjust. Games with clear rules.
Score-keeping, peer competition, small prizes/recognition.
Simple explanations with demonstration. "Watch first, then you try."
3-4 drills, rotate every 10-15 minutes.
Instruction Cues
Overloading with technique, extended lectures, adult expectations.
Beginning formal operations. Can understand cause-effect.
15–20 minutes per activity
Understand the why. Peer learning effective.
Measurable improvement, peer respect, performance data.
Explain the purpose. "This drill trains your contact because..."
Longer blocks with clear objectives. Debrief after.
Instruction Cues
Baby talk, condescension, ignoring social dynamics.
Full formal operations. Abstract reasoning available.
20–45 minutes on motivated tasks
Self-directed with coach guidance. Data-driven.
Personal bests, competitive results, long-term goals.
Adult-level. Explain trade-offs. "Here's what the data shows..."
Self-directed with check-ins. Long blocks possible.
Instruction Cues
Micromanagement, ignoring their input, one-size-fits-all.